The Simpsons is under threat in its 23rd year on TV - because it has become too expensive to make.

The show's producer said the show can't continue under its current financial model, following a report that big pay cuts are being sought for the actors who provide voices for Homer, Marge and Bart Simpson and other characters.

"We believe this brilliant series can and should continue, but we cannot produce future seasons under its current financial model," said Chris Alexander, spokesman for 20th Century Fox Television. He said producers hope a deal can be reached.

The cost of making the show has become prohibitive, with the Fox network reportedly losing money each year on new episodes, even as all the old episodes run in perpetuity in reruns and are a cash cow for producers and creators.

The Daily Beast reported that producers are demanding a 45% pay cut from the six voice actors, who reportedly make nearly eight million dollars each for a season. The website said the voice actors have offered to take a 30% pay in return for a portion of the show's syndication and merchandise revenue.

Allan Mayer, a spokesman for one of the show's voice actors, Harry Shearer, said he had no comment on the talks.

The manager for Dan Castellaneta, the voice of Homer Simpson, said she didn't know about the negotiations.